This grilled lemon pepper chicken is fresh and zesty! The juicy chicken breasts are seasoned with a tasty lemon and pepper mix, making each bite flavorful and bright.
Perfect for summer cookouts, it’s easy to make! Just grill, serve with veggies, and you’re ready to impress your friends. I like to whip up some rice on the side for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for something different, consider using chicken thighs for added juiciness, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade stick to the chicken. You can swap it out for avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point. Also, consider sesame oil for a unique flavor twist!
Lemon Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, though it might not be as bright. The zest adds a punch of lemony aroma, so try to include it if you can!
Black Pepper: Cracked black pepper adds a bold kick. If you want less heat, opt for finely ground black pepper. For a different style, experiment with white pepper for a milder taste.
Herbs: Dried thyme or Italian seasoning are great in this dish. As a substitution, fresh thyme is lovely if you have it, or you can use dried basil or oregano instead for a different herb profile.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy and flavorful chicken lies in marinating it properly. Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 2-3 hours or even overnight for deeper flavor.
- When ready to grill, shake off excess marinade, as too much can cause flare-ups on the grill.
- Preheat your grill properly; a medium-high heat will give you nice grill marks and a sear, locking in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; stop cooking at 165°F/74°C to keep it juicy.
- Allow the chicken to rest after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist when you cut into it.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, but for the best flavor, aim for 2-3 hours. Grill time will take about 14 minutes, bringing your total time close to 54 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade that will keep your chicken tender and juicy.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. If using a bag, seal it up; if using a dish, cover it. Put it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors seep into the chicken. For even more flavor, aim for 2-3 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken will get nice grill marks and seal in all the juices.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out and shake off any excess marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s done when you see good grill markings and a slight char.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is important because it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To serve, garnish your grilled lemon pepper chicken with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a side salad or your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if you prefer darker meat. Just adjust the grilling time as darker meat may require a little longer to cook through. You can also use skin-on chicken for added flavor, but be mindful of flare-ups due to the fat.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You won’t get grill marks, but the flavor will still be great!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Leftover grilled lemon pepper chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it has cooled before sealing it. To reheat, you can use the microwave or briefly warm it in the oven to keep it juicy.
What Should I Serve With This Chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a side salad, grilled vegetables, or rice. You could also serve it with quinoa or a light pasta dish. For a refreshing twist, consider a citrus or avocado salad as a side!
